16 Mar 2024 | 04:09 AM UTC
PNG: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs in Bismarck Sea, east-northeast of Kimbe, at around 14:32 March 16
Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs near Kimbe, West New Britain, PNG, at 14:32 March 16. No immediate reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in the Bismarck Sea off the north coast of New Britain Island at around 14:32 March 16. The epicenter was about 87 km (54 miles) east-northeast of Kimbe, West New Britain Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of East New Britain and West New Britain provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
